What are the differences between the 1985 and 1986 250R? I may buy a nice 1985 Honda 250R for $1100. The only thing wrong is a locking rear brake and its aftermarket wide rear axle. Is $1,100 a good deal? If I buy, I plan to switch the axle back to stock. Is the 1986 250R any different in terms of performance? If so, is it worth holding out for?

Also, does anyone know why a rear brake would periodically lock up while riding?

Any responses are appreciated. You could also email me at ewestermeyer@socal.rr.com

Eric

 

I've owned 2 1985 ATC 250r's and recently sold the last one only a year ago. (Had it from 1986 thru 2002)

Anyway, the 1986 had a thicker seat, slightly revised graphics, a stronger rear fender (1985 rear fenders crack easily in the rear corners), and it had some very minor tweeks to the engine and the engine was a different color I believe. Actually it may also have had a slightly different carb, I don't remember for sure. Performance wise, I think they are almost exactly the same. Personally, I liked the smaller seat on the '85 but I would rather have the '86's stronger rear fender. Both of my 85's were reliable and the only consistent problem I ever had was blown front fork seals.

$1100 should be a good deal. I sold mine last year for $1650.

 

The rear suspension linkage and carrier were revised for 1986 as well.

 

yes the chain adjustment is different, forks carry different amount of fluid, CARB IS THE MAJOR DIFFERENCE - i cant believe no one even mentioned that - the 86 had a flat slide while the 85 had a round slide, 86 engine has a gray finish while the 85 sports a black finish, some argue the 86 was a 6 speed while the 85 was a 5 speed, but i HIGHLY doubt that, seat and seat graphics, i believe the 86 ATC came with the highest wattage bulb stock (wooptie doo), their are little differences here and there in the rear brakes, and internals (mostly just extra washers where the 85 didnt have them throughout little things). most people claim the 85 had an advantage out of the box because of its carb, but the difference doesnt hold the 86 back any.

1100 is a great deal on a good condition fully functional 250R atc.

 

the differences in the 86 are not worth holding back on buying a 85 for 1100. the differences are mostly little updated crap, but for the most part they are twins.